“A Quantum Leap for Agile Driving”: the RS Torque Splitter

source: Audi AG

  • How development drivers and test engineers work hand in hand
  • The North Loop of the Nürburgring is the ideal area for testing the upper limits
  • More variability on the rear axle means quicker cornering

“A quantum leap for agile driving” – that’s what racing and development driver Frank Stippler had to say about the torque splitter with its fully variable torque distribution on the rear axle. Audi will soon launch the first-ever series roll-out of this technology in a sporty compact-class RS model. Frank Stippler and Meic Diessner, development and test engineer for chassis, spoke in an interview about the development and tuning process for the torque splitter in the RS 3 prototype. Both worked together throughout the entire development in various testing and set-up cycles on the North Loop of the Nürburgring to ensure that the new technology meets the wishes of sporty drivers on the racetrack as well as customers looking for comfort in day-to-day driving. That also included two self-contained continual runs of 8,000 kilometers each.

Mr. Diessner, Mr. Stippler, what was the process for you to work together on the development and tuning of the RS torque splitter?